Okra Fritter
Crispy okra fritters with a savory blend of herbs and cheese, perfect as a snack or appetizer for those who enjoy flavorful, crunchy vegetarian bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornmeal, flour, chopped onion, evaporated milk, beaten egg, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, salt, and red pepper in a bowl; stir in sliced okra.
- Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 2 inches into a Dutch oven and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of the okra mixture into the hot oil and cook until golden brown, turning once for even cooking.
- Remove fritters from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle with additional salt if desired and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or cayenne to the batter. If you don't have fresh okra, frozen okra can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. Substitute the Parmesan with any hard cheese you have on hand. Serve these fritters with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli for added zing.
Serving Suggestions
These okra fritters make a delightful appetizer or side dish, especially alongside a fresh salad or grilled meats. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce or a side of coleslaw. For a complete meal, serve them with oven fried haddock for a satisfying Southern-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover okra fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Okra Fritter contains roughly 847 calories, with 9g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1487mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them just before serving. If making in advance, fry them and then store in an airtight container, reheating as needed.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch. This will help thicken the batter and mimic the creaminess of evaporated milk. Almond or soy milk can also work for a dairy-free alternative.
How do I ensure my fritters are crispy?
To achieve crispy fritters, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying — around 350°F (175°C). Fry in small batches to avoid cooling the oil too much, and drain them well on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil. This will help keep them crispy and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).